From Covilhã: Tour Serra da Estrela e Covão d’metade

Exploring Portugal’s Highest Peak and Scenic Glacial Valleys: A Complete Review of the Serra da Estrela & Covão d’Metade Tour from Covilhã

This guided tour offers a comprehensive and visually captivating glimpse into Portugal’s Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range, famed for its dramatic landscapes, unique geological features, and local gastronomic delights. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines breathtaking viewpoints, natural wonders, and authentic region-specific tastings—all in about four hours.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with cultural insights. From panoramic stops overlooking the Cova da Beira to sampling regional cheeses and liqueurs, every part of the tour feels thoughtfully designed to give you a real taste of Serra da Estrela’s soul. That said, it’s quite fast-paced, and if you’re a lover of long, leisurely explorations, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to the natural beauty and local flavors of Serra da Estrela without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially suited for those with limited time, families, or anyone eager to see Portugal’s natural highlights with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Breathtaking viewpoints including Varanda dos Carqueijais and Piornos
• Visit to Portugal’s highest point, the Torre
• Authentic regional tastings of Serra da Estrela cheese and local liqueurs
• Natural wonders like the largest glacial valley in Europe, Vale Glaciar
• Expert local guides enhance understanding and storytelling
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in Covilhã

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Booking and Practicalities

The tour is priced at $85 per person, making it a fairly affordable way to explore some of Portugal’s most striking landscapes. It lasts roughly four hours, with flexible start times (either 09h00 or 14h30), which is great for fitting into various itineraries. The tour is operated by Euro Tours Covilhã and promises personalized service with a private group setting, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to crowded bus tours.

What’s Included?

You’ll be accompanied throughout by a multilingual guide fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, who will share insights and stories along the way. The included tastings of Serra da Estrela cheese and regional liqueurs add a delicious local touch that most travelers find memorable. Transportation from and back to your Covilhã accommodation is also part of the package.

What’s Not Included?

It’s important to note that lunch and entrance fees to monuments are not included. This means that if you wish to explore specific sites more deeply or enjoy a sit-down meal, you’ll need to plan separately. The focus here is on sightseeing and tasting, not a full-day, all-inclusive adventure.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Stop 1: Varanda dos Carqueijais Viewpoint
The tour kicks off with a visit to this spectacular vantage point that offers panoramic views of Cova da Beira. Travelers often comment on how breathtaking the scenery is, making it an excellent spot for photos and a quick intro to Serra’s grandeur. One reviewer described it as “a moment where the views are to die for,” setting the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Piornos
Here, you’ll get a photo stop with ample time (~40 minutes) to take in the scenery, including the Nave Santo Antônio, Covão do Ferro Dam, and Poio do Judeu. The highlight is contemplating the Nave Santo Antônio, which adds a touch of historical intrigue to the natural beauty.

Stop 3: Covão d’Ametade
Another scenic stop, this time to admire the Raso, Gordo, and Magro caves, and to see where the River Zêzere originates. It’s a favorite among visitors for being a prime vantage point to appreciate the largest glacial valley in Europe. Reviewers often mention how special it is to stand in this geological wonder.

Stop 4: Nossa Senhora da Boa Estrela
This stop provides a quick photo opportunity and a chance to absorb the tranquil atmosphere of this charming spot, contributing to the narrative of Serra’s spiritual and cultural significance.

Stop 5: Torre (The Highest Point in Portugal)
The main highlight is reaching the Torre, which is Portugal’s highest accessible point. Here, visitors get time to explore, take photos, and enjoy shopping for local products. The guide often shares stories about the mountain’s history and significance, enriching the experience.

Descending via Manteigas and Vale Glaciar
The descent reveals the unique landscapes of the Glacier Valley, a UNESCO-worthy natural marvel. The valley is a must-see for geology buffs and nature lovers alike. One review praised the guide’s storytelling for making this part even more magical.

Final Stop: Covão d’Ametade
The tour concludes at Covão d’Ametade, where the Zêzere River rises from the valley, and the Raso, Gordo, and Magro caves are visible. This is often cited as the highlight of the natural wonders, with guests appreciating the sense of stepping into a geological masterpiece.

Authentic Tasting Experience

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to sample Serra da Estrela cheese, renowned as one of Portugal’s seven gastronomic wonders, and regional liqueurs, which provide a delicious end to the sightseeing. As one reviewer noted, the cheese and liqueur tasting was “wonderful,” adding a delightful culinary dimension to the day.

The Guide and Transportation

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, especially praising Manuel, who was described as spectacular, attentive, and passionate about sharing the region’s stories. The transportation is comfortable and includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Covilhã, removing any stress about logistics. The small, private group setting allows for an engaging and flexible experience—stopping for photos or questions whenever you like.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and food lovers interested in authentic regional products. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive view of Serra da Estrela’s highlights, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed. It’s also suited for families or travelers seeking a guided, informative adventure with a local touch.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, and the schedule is quite packed, so those looking for a slower, more in-depth exploration might prefer a longer or different type of tour.

Final Thoughts

While the $85 price tag might seem modest considering the rich scenery, tastings, and guided insights, the real value lies in how efficiently this tour introduces you to some of Portugal’s most spectacular natural sights. Since it’s operated by a trusted provider with high ratings (4.9 out of 5 from 17 reviews), you can expect a well-organized, engaging experience.

The combination of stunning vistas, expert guidance, and regional tastings makes this a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Serra da Estrela without the hassle of self-driving or lengthy excursions. If you’re after breathtaking landscapes, educational storytelling, and authentic local flavors, this tour checks all those boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times available at 09h00 or 14h30.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a local guide who speaks Portuguese, Spanish, and English, hotel pickup and drop-off in Covilhã, and tastings of Serra da Estrela cheese and regional liqueurs.

Are entrance fees to monuments included?
No, entry fees to any monuments or sites are not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to visit specific attractions beyond the stops.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
The tour follows a set itinerary with scheduled stops, but the private group setting allows some flexibility for questions and photo breaks.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in natural scenery and local culture. Just note that it’s not accessible for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for higher altitudes. Food, drinks, backpacks, alcohol, or feeding animals are not allowed on the vehicle.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The numerous viewpoints and scenic stops are perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to eat beforehand or explore local options after the tour.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with “reserve now & pay later,” and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this guided tour from Covilhã offers a remarkably convenient way to experience the natural and cultural highlights of Serra da Estrela. With expert guides, breathtaking views, and authentic tastings, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a well-rounded, memorable day out in Portugal’s highest mountain range. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a scenic escape, this tour provides excellent value and a true taste of Portugal’s natural beauty.